The pancreas is a vital gland located behind the stomach that helps with digestion and hormone production. Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in this organ. In the UK, it is the tenth most common cancer, but early detection is rare because symptoms are often unclear and appear late, making the disease harder to catch in time.

Symptoms usually become noticeable only when the cancer has advanced, and even then they can be mistaken for less serious conditions. They may also vary depending on whether the cancer is in the head, body, or tail of the pancreas. The most common form is ductal adenocarcinoma, which begins in the cells that produce digestive enzymes.

One of the earliest warning signs is pain in the abdomen or back, especially after eating. At first, this pain may come and go, but it tends to become constant as the tumor grows. Another key symptom is jaundice, seen as yellowing of the skin and eyes, which happens when a tumor blocks the bile duct and causes a buildup of bilirubin.

Unexplained weight loss and digestive problems are also common. People may notice oily or foul-smelling stools due to the pancreas not producing enough enzymes. Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or fatty stools, can also occur if the pancreatic duct is blocked.

In some cases, pancreatic cancer can cause sudden diabetes in people with no prior history. Other symptoms include fatigue, blood clots, fever, shivering, and itchy skin linked to jaundice. Although the exact cause is unknown, risk factors include smoking, obesity, age, and family history. Because symptoms appear late, recognizing unusual changes and seeking medical advice early is essential.